For the first time in the district, a heron was found infected with avian influenza in the Ayyikara harbour area in Ward 43 of the Kannur Corporation, prompting the authorities to issue a public alert and step up surveillance measures.

Samples were collected after several herons were found dead in the area. Of the five samples tested, one returned positive for avian influenza, officials said.

C.P. Dhananjayan, Chief Veterinary Officer, said that Kannur had previously reported several cases of crows testing positive for the virus, but this was the first time that a heron was found infected.

According to officials, the initial samples collected from the birds had tested negative. However, after more herons were found dead in the locality, fresh samples were sent for examination. They were tested at the National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal, from where confirmation of H5N1 infection was received on Wednesday (May 6).

Mr. Dhananjayan said that since the infected bird was a migratory bird, the authorities had not imposed restrictions but had issued advisories to people engaged in poultry farming and trade. Poultry farmers and traders have been asked to immediately inform the Animal Husbandry department if unusual deaths are noticed among chickens or other birds.

People have been asked to remain vigilant if any unusual symptoms or deaths are noticed among migratory birds. Poultry owners have been advised to prevent contact between domestic birds and wild birds and avoid unnecessary visits to areas frequented by migratory birds.

Authorities said surveillance would be intensified at poultry farms in the affected region. The Forest and Wildlife department will also be informed if further interventions seem necessary.

The administration urged people not to spread rumours and to strictly follow directions issued by the Health and Animal Husbandry departments.